Basic car maintenance is something every driver should know. Not performing basic maintenance can be very expensive and costly to the car owner. It can even ruin the engine of the car.
Car owners should know how to check the tire pressure. Tire pressure is best checked when the car has not been drove more than two miles. Warm tires will give a false reading. Tires should also be checked for cracking or bulging of the tire tread.
The engine oil should be checked once a week. The car’s engine depends on the oil to lubricate, clean and cool it. If the car’s engine does not have enough oil, it puts it at risk for serious damage. Do not rely on gauges to check the oil, as gauges can fail. It is best to check the oil while the engine is cool and the car is on level ground. If the engine needs oil, use the recommended brand found in the owner’s manual.
The engine coolant should also be checked once a week and before long car trips. The coolant does just what it sounds like, it keeps the engine cool. Never check the engine coolant after the car has been drove. This can result in serious scalding, as the fluid can be hot from the radiator pressure. Be sure to use a cloth to twist off the cap slowly to relieve pressure.
Maintaining brake fluids is important as when there is no fluid, there essentially are no brakes. Brake fluid should be checked frequently and maintained. The fluid is very toxic so keep it away from skin, hands, eyes and dispose of it according to the label. When it comes to checking the actual brakes, leave that to a professional at least once a year unless problems are indicated.
Performing basic car maintenance can help insure you and your car have a long, happy relationship.